Shirovasti
is considered more of a palliative (Shamana )
treatment that an eliminative (Shodhana) one. The
treatment is usually preceded by oleation ( Sheehan
) and sudation ( Swedana).

A leather sleeve of about six to eight inches in
length is placed on the shaven
head of the patient and a ban (varti) tied around the
forehead to keep in place. Kneaded dough is used to line
the inside of this sleeve and ensure that it does not
leak. Oil is then poured into the sleeve and allowed to
remain on the head for a while. The oil commonly used is
Ksheerabala or Dhanwantaram, The length of time the oil
should be kept there is determined by the severity of the
disease. Usually it is up to fifty minutes for diseases
caused by severe Vata disorders.

This treatment is prescribed for disorders like facial
paralysis, cataract, deafness, earache, insomnia and other
diseases that afflict the cranial nerves. Patient is
seated in an upright position, and medicinal oil is poured
into a leather sleeve of about six to eight inches in
length, and kept for some time.